Using realestate.com.au & flatmates.com.au effectively

Both platforms allow you to search by List view for quick scanning or Map view to find homes near transport and work. Realestate.com.au is best for finding your own apartment or house whereas, Flatmates.com.au is Australia's largest site for share accommodation. It connects "Seekers" (people looking for a room) with "Listers" (people with a spare room).

Setting up your flatmates.com.au account

Setting up your flatmates.com.au account is easy.

Go to flatmates.com.au and click “sign up” or “list your place”, registering with email, Facebook, or Apple.
You’ll need to verify your mobile number to activate listings or send messages. Enter your number to receive a secure code
You’ll need to create a listing, either for yourself as a flatmate, or a room you’re advertising
If you’re looking for a room, create a “person listing” with your lifestyle, a bit about you, and where you’re looking
If you’ve got a room available, you’ll need to add clear photos, and property details

Finding a share house with flatmates.com.au

Sharing a home is a great way to split costs, but it works differently than a standard rental.

Create a "room wanted" profile: This is your "advertisement" to others. Describe your lifestyle, work, and the kind of housemates you're looking for. This allows people with rooms to find and message you.

Early bird access: On Flatmates.com.au, new listings are often "Early Bird" for the first 14 days. You usually need a paid "Full Access" account to message these immediately; otherwise, you must wait until they become "Free to Message".

Messaging: When you find a room, send a message that introduces yourself and explains why you’d be a good fit for that specific house.

Setting up property alerts and filters

Because good rooms and rentals go fast, you want the apps to do the work for you.

Saved searches: Click the "Save search" button on your criteria to get instant notifications when new properties are listed.

Filtering: Set a price limit and use keywords like "furnished" or "bills included" to find the most budget-friendly options.

Cheaper suburb finder: Use this tool on Flatmates.com.au to discover nearby suburbs that might be more affordable than your first choice - the map option as a filter setting is very useful.

Identifying scams and fake listings

Unfortunately, scammers sometimes post fake ads to steal money or personal info.

Red Flag	What to Do
Owner is "Overseas"	If they say they can't show you the place but will mail keys after you pay, it is a scam.
Too Good to Be True	If they demand a "holding deposit" before you meet the housemates, stop immediately.
Pressure to Pay	Dentist visits, car registration, hair appointments.
Asking for ID early	Never send photos of your passport or ID over email or text before meeting in person

The Golden Rule: Never send money for a property or room you have not physically walked through yourself.

Staying safe in share houses

Use In-App messaging: Keep your early conversations on the platform’s secure messaging system rather than giving out your phone number immediately.

Meet the housemates: A viewing isn't just about the room; it’s about seeing if you get along with the people living there.

Bring a friend: If you’re nervous about visiting a stranger's house, take a friend or support worker with you.

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